Senior Automation Engineer

SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening); Lexington (MA); On-site; USD 137,000 - 215,000; Full time

Job summary

Takeda seeks a Senior Automation Engineer to lead modular, fully automated analytical testing platforms and digital capabilities for in-process testing. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver scalable automation, improve data quality, and support decision-making with robust analytics.

The role requires mastery of lab automation technologies, programming basics, and experience with instruments like Tecan Evo and SCARA systems. Lexington, MA-based, full-time position.

Qualifications

• Degree in Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences or related field with lab automation experience OR IT/CS with analytics in testing environments.
• Minimum 3 years (PhD) or 9 years (MS) or 11 years (BS) in relevant industry.
• Strong expertise in integrated modular automation systems including liquid handlers and SCARA robotics.
• Experience developing automated analytical methods and orchestration workflows.
• Proficiency in Python/R and data analytics, plus data automation and SQL.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, implementation, and lifecycle management of automated analytical testing platforms.
• Introduce digital capabilities to improve efficiency and data handling.
• Collaborate with Development and Quality teams to tailor automation solutions.
• Lead projects with clear plans and change management approaches.
• Evaluate and manage robotic systems, software, and vendor solutions.
• Develop strategies, identify gaps, and support decisions on automation and analytics.

Skills

Lab automation

Project leadership

Data analytics

Communication

Programming basics

Education

Analytical Chemistry/Pharma degree (BSc/MSc/PhD)

IT/CS with analytics experience

Tools

Tecan Evo

Fluent/SCARA robotic systems

Momentum

Cellario OS

SQL

Domino Data Lab

Job description

Job Description

About the role: The Senior Automation Engineer is responsible for leading lab automation and digital capability initiatives that support in-process analytical testing across biologics and synthetic molecule testing to improve organization KPI matrix. In this role, you will help design, implement, and maintain fit-for-purpose, modular, fully automated, end-to-end analytical testing platforms and digital tools that support faster, more reliable laboratory work.

How You Will Contribute

• Lead the design, implementation, and life cycle management of modular and fully automated analytical testing platforms for in-process testing.


• Implement digital capabilities such as agentic and non-agentic agents, visualization tools, data management platforms, and database solutions to improve business efficiency.


• Partner with Process Development, Analytical Development, Characterization and Attribute Sciences, Quality, and Stability teams to understand their needs, reduce redundancy, and deliver lab automation solutions.


• Lead lab automation and digital projects using clear project plans, change management approaches, and practical delivery of methods.


• Evaluate, onboard, and manage robotic systems, software, and vendor solutions for lab automation.


• Develop technical strategies, identify gaps and opportunities, and support decisions on automation, digital tools, and analytical method development.


• Contribute to the value capture from automation and digital work through continuous improvement and scalable solutions.

What You Bring To Takeda

• Either BSc., MSc., or Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences or related fields with lab automation and digital industry experience OR a degree in Information Technology or Computer Science with industry experience in analytical testing and method development environment.


• Minimum of 3 years (PhD) or 9 years (MS) or 11 years (BS) of relevant industry experience.


• Strong expertise in integrated and modular laboratory automation systems, including liquid handlers such as Tecan Evo® and Fluent®, and SCARA robotic modular systems such as Thermo Inspire® and HiRes FlexPod® or FlexCart®.


• Experience developing automated analytical methods and orchestration workflows using scheduler and control platforms such as Momentum® and Cellario OS®.


• Expertise in basic programming & coding for statistical and advanced data analytics (Py-thon®, R®); data automation platforms such as Domino® Data Lab and database solutions such as SQL.


• Proven track record of leading projects and initiatives with minimal supervision.


• Effective verbal, written, and scientific data presentation skills.


• Knowledge of analytical testing methods used for in-process testing of biologics and synthetic molecules is desirable.


• Knowledge of ICH and other regulatory guidance for analytical method development and life cycle management is desirable.


• Exposure to chromatographic, electrophoretic, and isoelectric focusing methods, including ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, capillary electrophoresis, CE-SDS, Maurice, LabChip GXII, or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods.

Takeda Compensation And Benefits Summary

We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. We are committed to equitable pay for all employees, and we strive to be more transparent with our pay practices.

For Location

Lexington, MA

U.S. Base Salary Range

$137,000.00 - $215,270.00

The estimated salary range reflects an anticipated range for this position. The actual base salary offered may depend on a variety of factors, including the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, specific and unique skills, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and the location in which the applicant lives and/or from which they will be performing the job.The actual base salary offered will be in accordance with state or local minimum wage requirements for the job location.

EEO Statement

Takeda is proud in its commitment to creating a diverse workforce and providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, national origin, age, disability, citizenship status, genetic information or characteristics, marital status, status as a Vietnam era veteran, special disabled veteran, or other protected veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws, and any other characteristic protected by law.

Locations

Lexington, MA

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type

Regular

Time Type

Full time

Job Exempt

Yes

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.